Midland Park children in AWE of new technology at the library

Children's librarian Emily Myhren shows twins Christopher and Joseph Mayer how to use the new computers.

MIDLAND PARK – Youngsters visiting the Midland Park Memorial Library are being "awed" by the new early-literacy stations that allow them to explore phonics, mathematics and art programs on child-friendly touch-screen computers.

Library Director Sue Lazzari said she decided to purchase the two AWE computers for the children’s room at the library after learning of their success in neighboring libraries.

Lazzari said each computer costs $2,500 and comes with pre-loaded software.

"Children will not connect to the Internet on these computers," said Lazzari. "They provide a safe and secure learning experience. They have been popular at the libraries in Wyckoff, Ramsey, Mahwah and Ridgewood. Even though we are a small library, I wanted to offer the same opportunities to our community."